Venice Biennale 83: The Great Leap Backward

The 83rd Venice Biennale, running from 2026, has been criticized for a malfunctioning mechanism, not the ticketing system but the so-called 'Barbera Line'—a virtuous compromise between red carpets and experimentation, cinephilia and entertainment. This line, which had paid off in recent years, relied on a delicate balance that was missing this year due to the absence of a key ingredient: Hollywood. The director, the longest-serving in the festival's history, had made reconnecting with overseas studios a top priority, but this effort seems to have failed. The article, written by Gabriele Gimmelli and Anita Romanello, suggests that the festival has taken a great leap backward, losing its previous equilibrium. The piece was published on doppiozero.com on September 6, 2026, and reflects on the challenges of maintaining a blend of art and commerce in the face of industry shifts.